hi babe / really

• Edition: Limited and individually numbered edition of 514 copies
• Series: Guerssen 30th Anniversary Collection
• Packaging: Textured fold-over sleeve, stickered protective outer bag and poly-lined black inner sleeve

This strictly limited split single brings together two ferocious examples of 1970s Zamrock, the uniquely Zambian fusion of psychedelic rock, hard rock, garage energy, funk rhythms and African musical traditions.

Ngozi Family’s “Hi Babe” originally appeared on the highly collectable Day of Judgement album. Led by singer and guitarist Paul Ngozi, the track is driven by a primitive, heavily distorted riff and one of the most intense fuzz-wah guitar solos found on any Zamrock recording.

Paul Ngozi was one of the central figures of Zambia’s 1970s rock movement. His raw guitar tone, direct songwriting and forceful stage presence gave Ngozi Family a harder and more aggressive sound than many of their contemporaries, frequently approaching garage rock, proto-punk and early heavy metal.

On the reverse, Crossbones contribute “Really,” taken from their exceptionally rare 1976 album Wise Man. Thick fuzz guitar, heavy drums and a dark, Black Sabbath-influenced riff create a crushing example of Zambian underground hard rock.

Crossbones emerged from the same vibrant Lusaka scene as Ngozi Family, WITCH, Amanaz and Peace. Their music combined psychedelic guitar and heavy Western rock influences with Zambian rhythms and songwriting, resulting in one of the most powerful albums of the original Zamrock period.

Issued for Guerssen’s 30th anniversary in an individually numbered edition of only 514 copies, this 45 places two of the heaviest Zamrock recordings together for the first time.

Track listing:

Side A
Ngozi Family – Hi Babe – 4:03

Side B
Crossbones – Really – 3:57